Avoid Water Damage Restoration Scams in Mermentau
Water damage strikes fast in Mermentau's flood-prone area, and scammers love the panic it causes. Spot the red flags early, verify every claim, and keep your family safe by choosing wisely.
✓ Verify contractors • ✓ Spot red flags • ✓ Avoid common schemes
Common Water Damage Restoration Scams in Mermentau
Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators
Upfront Payment Scam
Scammer shows up uninvited, assesses 'emergency damage,' demands 50-100% payment in cash/wire, then ghosts you.
Bait-and-Switch
Super-low quote for drying, then 'discovers' mold/structural issues needing 5x the price mid-job.
Unlicensed Shoddy Work
Fake crews use wrong equipment, causing mold growth or warped floors, then demand more to 'fix' it.
Fake Insurance Reps
Calls/emails pretending to be from your insurer, pushing their 'approved' service without your policy details.
How to Verify a Professional
Insurance
Request a Certificate of Insurance showing general liability ($1M+), workers' comp, and auto coverage. Call the insurer directly (number on cert) to verify it's current and lists your job site. This protects you from accidents or damage claims.
Licensing
Check the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC) website at lslbc.louisiana.gov or call (225) 765-2301. Enter the company name or license number to confirm active status, scope of work, and complaints. Water restoration often requires Residential or Commercial licenses.
References
Demand 3+ recent local references from Acadia Parish jobs. Call them to verify quality, timeliness, cleanup, and if they'd rehire. Cross-check BBB, Google reviews, and Angi for patterns.
Protection FAQs
Do water damage restorers need licenses in Louisiana?
Is upfront payment normal for water damage?
How to spot a water damage scam in Mermentau?
What certs prove a pro water damage team?
Should I hire the first responder after flooding?
What if they say my insurance requires them?
Hire with Confidence
Don't take risks with your property. We connect you with pre-screened, licensed professionals in Mermentau.